Italian Heritage Work Visa Explained: Requirements, Process, and Who Qualifies
by Adriana ruiz
Recent changes in Italian immigration law, particularly Article 1-bis of Law 74/2025, offer a new opportunity for individuals with Italian ancestry to work in Italy. This visa, linked to Article 27 of Legislative Decree 286/98, allows descendants of Italian citizens to obtain a work permit, visa, and residence permit for subordinate work, bypassing the usual quota limitations.
Key Features:
• No Quota Limits: Unlike many work visas, this visa is not subject to the annual immigration quotas set by the Italian government.
• Italian Ancestry: Applicants must be descendants of Italian citizens. While the exact method of proving ancestry is still being clarified, there are no generational limits.
• Job Offer Required: A crucial requirement is a job offer from an Italian employer for a subordinate work position (employee).
• Residence Abroad: Applicants must reside outside of Italy when applying.
• Targeted Countries: This visa is intended for citizens of countries with significant historical Italian emigration. The specific countries will be determined by a decree from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in conjunction with the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Labour.
How it Works:
1. Job Offer: The process begins with an Italian employer offering a job to a qualified descendant of an Italian citizen.
2. Work Authorization (Nulla Osta): The Italian employer applies for a work authorization (“nulla osta”) from the Immigration Office (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione).
3. Visa Application: Once the work authorization is granted, the foreign worker applies for a subordinate work visa at the Italian Consulate in their country of residence.
4. Entry and Contract: Upon arrival in Italy, the employee must sign a first entry contract at the Immigration Office.
5. Residence Permit: The employee then applies for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno).
Article 27 of Legislative Decree 286/98:
This article of the Consolidated Immigration Act outlines various categories of work permits that are exempt from quota limitations. The Italian Heritage Work Visa falls under this framework, specifically designed for individuals with Italian roots. Other categories under Article 27 include highly skilled workers, intra-company transfers, and certain professionals.
Important Considerations:
• The implementation details, particularly the list of eligible countries and the method for proving Italian ancestry, are still being finalized. Further decrees from the relevant ministries are expected.
• This visa can be a valuable option for those who may no longer qualify for Italian citizenship by descent due to recent changes in citizenship laws. It provides a pathway to live and work in Italy and potentially apply for citizenship through residency in the future.
Subscribe to our newsletter to access content and updates to help navigate life as an expat in Italy. If you need help with your citizenship process, language courses, or general expat life in Italy, email us at info@expatslivinginrome.com
Rome Fiumicino Airport Now Offers Dog Hotel & Pet-Friendly Services
Italy’s main international gateway, Rome Fiumicino Airport, is now one of the most pet-friendly airports in Europe, thanks to the introduction of two dedicated services for dogs: the luxurious Dog Relais hotel by Fly Le Dog and multiple Pet Areas within and around the terminals. Whether you’re departing, arriving, or leaving your pet behind during […]
Italy to Issue Half a Million Work Visas for Non-EU Nationals Between 2026 and 2028
Italy is set to open its doors to nearly half a million non-EU workers over the next three years, following a preliminary approval by the Council of Ministers on June 30, 2025. The new immigration plan, outlined in a draft decree by the President of the Council of Ministers (DPCM), sets the framework for legal […]
The New Italian Citizenship Law in 2025: Acquisition, Loss, and Reacquisition
This article offers a comprehensive overview of Italian citizenship, outlining the various pathways to its acquisition, conditions for its loss, and provisions for its reacquisition. Rooted in Law no. 91 of February 5, 1992, Italian citizenship law emphasizes individual intent and acknowledges the right to hold multiple citizenships. The foundational principles include the transmissibility of […]
How to Get the Digital Nomad Visa for Italy in 2025 – The Freelancers’ Guide
Italy has always been a dream destination for those who love food, history, and the good life — and now it’s becoming a hotspot for remote workers and freelancers. In 2024, Italy officially introduced the Digital Nomad Visa, a long-awaited permit designed for non-EU remote workers and freelancers who want to live and work legally in Italy while […]
Italy Is Reducing Bureaucracy Across Key Services
Italy is introducing a new wave of administrative simplifications aimed at reducing bureaucracy and improving public services. Minister for Public Administration Paolo Zangrillo announced that over 260 simplification procedures have already been implemented, with more on the way as part of Italy’s commitments under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). Key Updates and How […]
Transport Strikes in Italy in July 2025: Full Calendar by City and National Level
In July 2025, several national and local transport strikes will affect trains, planes, and buses. The disruptions—driven by various labor unions and involving both public and private operators—could seriously impact mobility for tourists during the peak season and for Italians during their daily commutes. Below is a detailed breakdown of the confirmed transport strikes happening […]
How to Navigate the Property Search and Purchase Process in Italy
Looking to buy property in Italy? We are here to help you step by step! Have you always dreamed of owning a home in Italy—whether it’s a charming countryside farmhouse, a coastal villa, or a cozy apartment in a historic town? We’re here to help turn that dream into reality. Buying real estate in Italy […]
How to Get a Student Visa for Italy: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025
Italy is a dream destination for many international students. Whether you’re pursuing a university degree, learning the Italian language, or attending a culinary school, you’ll likely need a “Visto per Studio” (Student Visa) if you’re staying over 90 days and you’re from outside the EU. Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of obtaining a […]
